Tinnitus is a common auditory symptom, with approximately 15% of people experiencing it. For some, tinnitus may only pop up for a few seconds once in a while, but for others, it can be a constant presence that negatively affects mental health.
How Does Tinnitus Affect Mental Health?
A 2023 study of 8539 patients found that participants with tinnitus suffered from higher rates of depression, anxiety and somatic symptom disorders (conditions that cause extreme focus on physical symptoms leading to emotional distress) than their counterparts without tinnitus.
The study further stressed that the possibility of mental health issues should be a consideration when treating patients with tinnitus.
How Can I Safeguard My Mental Health?
Combining mental health treatment with effective tinnitus management is the best way to safeguard your mental health. If tinnitus is causing feelings of anxiety, depression or emotional distress, schedule an appointment with an Arlington mental health specialist as soon as possible.
Tips for Effective Tinnitus Management
A few ways you can manage your tinnitus include:
- Sound masking. Sound masking with a fan, noise machine or hearing aids with a tinnitus setting will give your brain something else to focus on, thereby minimizing the intrusive ringing.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on reframing your negative reaction to tinnitus. For example, instead of thinking “tinnitus is endless,” you could reframe it as “I’m having difficulty dealing with tinnitus, but I’m on a great path toward relief.”
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT).TRT combines sound therapy with counseling from a qualified hearing specialist to help minimize your reaction to the ringing.
- Relaxation. Stress and tinnitus exacerbate each other. Find some time to wind down with a good book, a nice long bath or a yoga or meditation video.
Tinnitus is extremely personal, and what works for one person may not work for you, so don’t feel dismayed if you need to try a few things before finding the right method.
Our specialists will review your symptoms, identify what triggers your tinnitus if applicable and help you find the right management path. Contact ENT Specialists Of Northern Virginia to schedule your appointment today.